[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 36 (Monday, February 28, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E188-E189]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY OF LILLIE E. PERKINS

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. ROSA L. DeLAURO

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                       Monday, February 28, 2022

  Ms. DeLAURO. Madam Speaker, it is with a deep sadness and immense 
gratitude that I stand to join the many family, friends, and colleagues 
who have gathered to remember Mrs. Lillie E. Perkins, a New Haven 
institution in our education community. I have often spoke of our 
nation's need for talented, creative educators ready to help our 
children learn and grow. Lillie was not only that kind of educator, but 
she was also that kind of community leader. She inspired your students 
and colleagues alike and will be deeply missed by all of those 
fortunate enough to have known her.
  At the tender age of 7 Lillie knew that she was ``born to teach.'' In 
pursuit of this dream, she earned her bachelor's degree at Fayetteville 
State University before moving to Connecticut with her husband, James, 
and earning her master's degree from the University of Connecticut and 
an Administrative Sixth Year Certificate from Southern Connecticut 
State University. She and James raised their daughters, Tiara and 
Sharon, and Lillie began her thirty-six-year career with the New Haven 
Public School system. Lillie was an extraordinarily gifted teacher with 
a passion and compassion that was felt by the students in her classroom 
as well as kids across the community.
  In addition to her work in the classroom, Lillie's invaluable 
contributions to young people and the community have left an indelible 
mark. Early in her career she recognized the need for young people to 
have the opportunity to express themselves in a positive way after 
school hours. Whether with the Dr. Martin Luther King Choir, the Helene 
Grant School Choir, or the remarkable Unity Boys Choir, she found ways 
for these young people from across Greater New Haven to come together 
and achieve extraordinary accomplishments for which they can be very 
proud. I have had the opportunity to hear the angelic voices of the 
Unity Boys Choir and have seen first-hand the light in their eyes that 
comes with the excitement and adoration of the crowds they are 
entertaining, Lillie touched their lives in a very special way--not 
only allowing them to share their musical talents with others but 
teaching them the importance of and satisfaction in giving back to the 
community.
  Lillie's engagement in the community also extended beyond her service 
to the school system. She volunteered her time and energies to a number 
of other programs community initiatives including the Mayor's Youth 
Service Program, the Toys/Teas/Toys Closets program at Yale Children's 
Hospital, the 1995 Special Olympic World Garnes in Connecticut, the 
Kids Protection Network Program, Christian Community Action's Food 
program, and the New Haven Board of Young Adult Police Commissioners. 
Lillie was also an active member of Bible Gospel Church as well as the 
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority and served as a community assistant for 
senior citizens. The myriad of awards and commendations she received 
over the lifetime are a testament to the difference she made in the 
community and the lives of others.
  With her passing, New Haven has lost a much cherished and invaluable 
member of our

[[Page E189]]

community. Lillie E. Perkins left an indelible mark, not only on the 
community she called home but on the hearts of the thousands whose 
lives she touched. It is my honor to rise today to pay tribute to the 
life of Lillie E. Perkins and extend my deepest condolences to her 
daughters, Tiara and Sharon, as well as her extended network of family, 
friends, and colleagues. As much as she will be missed, it is 
heartening to know that the legacy of service and compassion she leaves 
will continue to inspire generations to come.

                          ____________________